Brush cleaning system

ABSTRACT

A brush cleaning system is provided. The brush cleaning system includes a motive force and a cam configured for rotation as urged by the motive force. An arm has a first end engaged with the cam and an opposing second end. The opposing second end is configured for vertical and horizontal movement as initiated by rotation of the cam. A clamping structure is connected to the second end of the arm and is configured to secure a brush. The brush has a plurality of bristles. Rotation of the cam results in the plurality of bristles of the brush moving in an orbital motion.

BACKGROUND

A paintbrush is a tool used to apply paint, coatings and/or sealers topaintable surfaces. A paintbrush is configured to pick up the paint,coating and/or sealer with a plurality of filaments (also calledbristles) that are held firmly against a handle typically with one ormore spacer plugs and a ferrule. The plurality of filaments can beformed from materials including animal hair or synthetic materials, suchas for example, acrylic, polyester, nylon or amalon.

The ferrule is a metal band that wraps around the plurality offilaments, the one or more spacer plugs and the handle and gives thebrush strength. Typically, the one or more spacer plugs within theferrule help the plurality of filaments sits tightly against the handleand create a plurality of reservoirs for paint. An adhesive substance,such as the non-limiting example of epoxy is used to lock the pluralityof filaments against the one or more spacer plugs and the handle.

After using a paint brush, the paint brush is typically cleaned toremove the remaining paint, coatings and/or sealers. If the remainingpaint, coatings and/or sealers is allowed to dry while still on theplurality of bristles, the plurality of bristles may stiffen, therebyrendering the paint brush unusable.

Proper cleaning of a paint brush involves removal of the remainingpaint, coatings and/or sealers from the plurality of bristles andtypically from the plurality of reservoirs formed within the ferrule bythe one or more spacers. Unfortunately, it can be difficult, timeconsuming, expensive and a wasteful use of excessive water to properlyclean used paint brushes. It would be advantageous if used paint brushescould be cleaned in a more efficient manner.

SUMMARY

It should be appreciated that this Summary is provided to introduce aselection of concepts in a simplified form, the concepts being furtherdescribed below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is notintended to identify key features or essential features of thisdisclosure, nor it is intended to limit the scope of the brush cleaningsystem.

The above objects as well as other objects not specifically enumeratedare achieved by a brush cleaning system. The brush cleaning systemincludes a motive force and a cam configured for rotation as urged bythe motive force. An arm has a first end engaged with the cam and anopposing second end. The opposing second end is configured for verticaland horizontal movement as initiated by rotation of the cam. A clampingstructure is connected to the second end of the arm and is configured tosecure a brush. The brush has a plurality of bristles. Rotation of thecam results in the plurality of bristles of the brush moving in anorbital motion.

The above objects as well as other objects not specifically enumeratedare also achieved by a method of using a brush cleaning system. Thebrush cleaning system includes the steps of rotating a cam with a motiveforce, engaging a first end of an arm with the cam in a manner such thatthe first end of the arm rotates as the cam rotates and a second end ofthe arm moves in a vertical direction and a horizontal direction as thecam rotates, the second end of the arm includes a clamping structure,securing a brush to the clamping structure, the brush having a pluralityof bristles and a plurality of paint reservoirs between the plurality ofbristles and moving the plurality of bristles and the plurality of paintreservoirs in an orbital motion.

The above objects as well as other objects not specifically enumeratedare also achieved by a brush cleaning system. The brush cleaning systemincludes a motive force and an arm connected to the motive force. Thearm is configured for vertical and horizontal movement as initiated by adevice connected to the motive force. A clamping structure is connectedto the arm and is configured to secure a brush, the brush having aplurality of bristles. Vertical and horizontal movement of the armresults in the plurality of bristles of the brush moving in an orbitalmotion.

Various objects and advantages of the brush cleaning system will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art from the following DetailedDescription, when read in light of the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective side view, partially in cross-section, of aclean paint brush.

FIG. 2 is a perspective side view, partially in cross-section of a usedpaint brush.

FIG. 3 is a right-side perspective view of a brush cleaning system inaccordance with the invention.

FIG. 4 is a left side perspective view of the brush cleaning system ofFIG. 3 .

FIG. 5 is a left side, exploded perspective view of the brush cleaningsystem of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 6 is a left side, cross-sectional view of the brush cleaning systemof FIG. 3 .

FIG. 7 is a left side, partially in cross-section, perspective view ofthe brush cleaning system of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 8 is a right-side perspective view of the brush cleaning system ofFIG. 3 shown engaged with a paint brush.

FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of the brush cleaning system of FIG.3 shown in a first orientation.

FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of the brush cleaning system of FIG.3 shown in a second orientation.

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of the brush cleaning system of FIG.3 shown in a third orientation.

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of the brush cleaning system of FIG.3 shown in a fourth orientation.

FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of the brush cleaning system of FIG.3 shown returned to the first orientation of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of an elliptical orbit formed by thepaint brush of FIG. 2 as the brush cleaning system of FIG. 3 forms theorientations of FIGS. 9-13 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The brush cleaning system will now be described with occasionalreference to specific embodiments. The brush cleaning system may,however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed aslimited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodimentsare provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, andwill fully convey the scope of the brush cleaning system to thoseskilled in the art.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which the brush cleaning system belongs. The terminology usedin the description of the brush cleaning system is for describingparticular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of thebrush cleaning system. As used in the description of the brush cleaningsystem and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the”are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the contextclearly indicates otherwise.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities ofdimensions such as length, width, height, and so forth as used in thespecification and claims are to be understood as being modified in allinstances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated,the numerical properties set forth in the specification and claims areapproximations that may vary depending on the desired properties soughtto be obtained in embodiments of the brush cleaning system.Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forththe broad scope of the brush cleaning system are approximations, thenumerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported asprecisely as possible. Any numerical values, however, inherently containcertain errors necessarily resulting from error found in theirrespective measurements.

The description and figures disclose a brush cleaning system. Generally,the brush cleaning system is configured to impart motion to a brushneeding cleaning in a manner such as to clean the brush. The impartedmotion includes a reciprocating vertical element simultaneous with areciprocating side-to-side element, thereby resulting in a continuouselliptical or orbital motion. Advantageously, the imparted motion ishighly effective in cleaning the plurality of bristles in the brush aswell as cleaning the plurality of reservoirs formed between thebristles. In certain embodiments, the brush can have the form of a paintbrush. However, the brush can have other forms including thenon-limiting examples of cleaning brushes, make-up brushes and the like.

The term “brush”, as used herein, is defined to mean any structuremechanism, device or implement having a handle and a plurality offlexible bristles used for cleaning, scrubbing and/or applying a liquidor powder to a surface.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , a non-limiting example of a brush isillustrated generally at 10. The brush 10 includes a cutaway portion toprovide visibility to interior portions of the brush 10. The brush 10 isa conventional paint brush and will only be briefly described herein.The brush 10 is configured to apply paint, coatings and/or sealers topaintable surfaces. The brush 10 includes a plurality of flexiblebristles 12 arranged in a pattern having a rectangular cross-sectionalshape. In other embodiments, the plurality of flexible bristles 12 canbe arranged in patterns having other cross-sectional shapes, such as thenon-limiting example of a circular cross-sectional shape. The pluralityof bristles 12 can be formed from materials including animal hair orsynthetic materials, such as for example, acrylic, polyester, nylon oramalon.

Referring again to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the plurality ofbristles 12 are held in place with one or more spacer plugs 14, anadhesive substance 16 and a ferrule 18. The one or more spacer plugs 14are configured to help maintain the plurality of bristles in a tightlyseated arrangement and are further configured to form one or moreinternal reservoirs 20 for the temporary storage of liquids to beapplied, such as the non-limiting examples of paint, coatings and/orsealers. The adhesive substance 16 is configured to lock the pluralityof bristles 12 and the one or more spacer plugs together. In theillustrated embodiment, the adhesive substance 16 has the form of epoxy.However, other suitable adhesive substances can be used. While theembodiment shown in FIG. 1 illustrates the use of the one or more spacerplugs 14, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, theplurality of bristles 12 can be maintained in a tightly seatedarrangement and can form one or more internal reservoirs 20 with otherstructures and/or with other methods. It should be appreciated that thenovel brush cleaning system described herein is applicable regardless ofwhether the brush 10 incorporates spacer plugs 14 or not.

The ferrule 18 is a band that wraps around the plurality of bristles 12,the one or more spacer plugs 14 and a portion of a handle 22. Theferrule 18 is configured to give the brush 10 strength. In theillustrated embodiment, the ferrule 18 is formed from a metallicmaterial, such as for example aluminum. In alternate embodiments, theferrule 18 can be formed from other suitable materials.

Referring again to FIG. 1 , the handle 22 extends from the ferrule 18and is configured to provide a comfortable gripping surface for thebrush 10 as well as providing balance during use of the brush 10. In theillustrated embodiment, the handle 22 is formed from wood, however inother embodiments, the handle 22 can be formed from other materialsincluding the non-limiting examples of polymeric materials and bamboo.

Referring now to FIG. 2 , the brush 10′ is the same brush 10 illustratedin FIG. 1 shown after use to apply paint. While some effort has beenundertaken to clean the brush 10′, elements of paint 24 remain in thereservoirs 20 formed between the plurality of bristles 12. If leftuncleaned, the remaining elements of paint 24 can render the brush 10′unusable.

Referring now to FIGS. 3-8 , a novel brush cleaning system isillustrated generally at 40. Generally, the novel brush cleaning system40 (hereafter “cleaning system”) is configured to impart a rapid,elliptical cleaning motion to a brush 10′ needing cleaning andpositioned in a cleaning medium. The imparted elliptical cleaning motionincludes a reciprocating side-to-side element and a simultaneousreciprocating vertical motion. Without being held to the theory, it isbelieved the combination of the side-to-side motion and thereciprocating vertical motion, while positioned in a cleaning medium,provides a highly effective method of cleaning the plurality of bristles12 and the plurality of reservoirs 20 formed between the bristles 12.The cleaning system 40 includes an arm 42, a guide element 44, a cam 46,a first shaft 48, a second shaft 50, a first right-angle gear 52, asecond right angle gear 54, a pivotable handle support 56, a handle 58and a housing 60.

Referring again to FIGS. 3-8 , the arm 42 includes a first end 62, anopposing second end 64 and an intermediate section 66 extendingtherebetween. The first end 62 includes a base section 70, opposingriser elements 72 a, 72 b and a top element 74. The base section 70forms a flat inner surface 76 configured to receive a portion of a paintbrush 10. The opposing riser elements 72 a, 72 b extend from the basesection 70 in the same direction and are connected to the top element74.

Referring again to FIGS. 3-8 , the base section 70, opposing riserelements 72 a, 72 b and the top element 74 cooperated to form a cavity78 therebetween. The cavity 78 is configured to receive portions of thepaint brush 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity 78 has arectangular cross-sectional shape that approximates a rectangularcross-sectional shape of the paint brush handle 22. However, in otherembodiments, the cavity 78 can have other cross-sectional shapes, in amanner such that the sufficient that the cavity 78 can receive portionsof the paint brush 10.

Referring again to FIGS. 3-8 , the top element 74 includes a threadedaperture 80. The threaded aperture 80 extends through the top element 74and is configured to receive a rotatable translation screw 82 in amanner such that rotation of the translation screw 82 advances a firstend 83 of the translation screw 82 in an axial direction toward the flatinner surface 76 of the base section 70 or away from the flat innersurface 76 of the base section 70. An opposing second end 84 of thetranslation screw 82 is attached to a knob 86 in a manner such thatrotation of the knob 86 results in rotation and axial advancement of thetranslation screw 82 as described above.

Referring now to FIG. 8 , the base section 70, opposing riser elements72 a, 72 b, top element 74, translation screw 82 cooperate to form aclamping structure 90. The clamping structure 90 is configured to securethe paint brush 10 to the arm 42. In operation, the knob 86 is rotateduntil the first end 83 of the translation screw 82 vacates the cavity 78a sufficient distance to allow a portion of the handle 22 to extendthrough the cavity 78 and seat against the flat inner surface 76 of thebase section 70. In a next step, the knob 86 is rotated to advance thefirst end 83 of the translation screw 82 in an axial direction towardthe handle 22. In a final step, the translation screw 82 is furtherrotated to form a firm connection with the handle 22. In this manner,the paint brush 10 is secured to the arm 42.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-7 , the intermediate section 66 of the arm 42extends from the first end 62 to the second end 64. A portion of theintermediate section 66 is seated within a slot 90 formed within theguide element 44. The slot 90 has a cross-sectional shape thatapproximates a cross-sectional shape of the portion of the intermediatesection 66 seated within the slot, such that the slot provides a guidingstructure as the arm 42 moves in an elliptical orbit. In the illustratedembodiment, the slot 90 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape. Inother embodiments, it is contemplated that the slot 90 can have othercross-sectional shapes sufficient to provide a guiding structure as thearm 42 moves in an elliptical orbit.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-7 , a boss 92 extends in an axial directionfrom an outer surface 94 of the guide element 44. The boss 92 seatswithin a portion of the housing 60 in a manner such as to facilitaterotation of the guide element 44 about the boss 92 as the arm 42 movesin an elliptical orbit. While the embodiment of the boss 92 shown inFIGS. 5-7 show the boss 92 as having a circular cross-sectional shape,in other embodiment, the boss 92 can have other cross-sectional shapessufficient to facilitate rotation of the guide element 44 about the boss92 as the arm 42 moves in an elliptical orbit. Still further, it iscontemplated that the guide element 44 can be supported by otherstructures, mechanisms and/or devices configured to facilitate rotationof the guide element 44 about the boss 92 as the arm 42 moves in anelliptical orbit. Non-limiting examples of other structures, mechanismsand/or devices include clips, clamps and brackets.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-7 , the second end 64 of the arm 42 includesan aperture 96. The aperture 96 is configured to engage a pin 98extending from an outboard surface 100 of the cam 46. The cam 46 ismounted for rotation on a first end 102 of the first shaft 48. The firstshaft 48 has an opposing second end 104. The first and second ends 102,104 of the first shaft 48 are supported for rotation by bearings 108,110 respectively.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-7 , the first right angle gear 52 ispositioned between the bearings 108, 110. As will be explained in moredetail below, rotation of the first right angle gear 52 results inrotation of the first shaft 48, thereby resulting in rotation of the cam46. Rotation of the cam 46 results in movement of the arm in anelliptical orbit.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-7 , the second shaft 50 has a first end 112and an opposing second end 114. The second shaft 50 is supported forrotation by bearing 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing 116is positioned between the first and second ends 112, 114. In alternateembodiments, the bearing 116 can be positioned in other locationssufficient to support the second shaft for rotation.

Referring now to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 , the bearings 108, 110and 116 have the form of ball bearings. However, it is contemplated thatin other embodiments, the bearings 108, 110 and 116 can have otherforms, including the non-limiting examples of sleeve bearings orbushings.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-7 , the first end 112 of the second shaft 50has the cross-sectional shape of a hex-sided structure. The hex-sidedstructure is configured to engage a rotational motive force, such as thenon-limiting example of an electric drill motor. In other embodiments,the first end 112 of the second shaft 50 can have other cross-sectionalshapes, such as the non-limiting example of a square cross-sectionalshape, sufficient to engage a rotational motive force.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-7 , the second right angle gear 54 is seatedon the second shaft 50 at the second end 114. As will be explained inmore detail below, rotation of the first end 112 of the second shaft 50results in rotation of the second right angle gear 54. The rotation ofthe second right angle gear 54 results in rotation of the first rightangle gear 52 and subsequent rotation of the cam 46 as described above.In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second right angle gears52, 54 have the form of mating miter gears. It is contemplated that inother embodiments, other forms of gears can be used for the efficienttransmission of power and motion between intersecting shafts at a rightangle. One non-limiting example of a suitable gear set include bevelgears.

Referring now to FIG. 6 , the first shaft 48 has a longitudinal axis A-Aand the second shaft has a longitudinal axis B-B. The longitudinal axisA-A of the first shaft 48 and the longitudinal axis B-B of the secondshaft 50 form an angle α. The angle α is configured to ensure efficienttransmission of power and motion between intersecting first and secondshafts 48, 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle α isapproximately 90°. However, in other embodiments, the angle α can beless than 90° or more than 90°, sufficient to ensure efficienttransmission of power and motion between intersecting first and secondshafts 48, 50.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-7 , a rotatable support axle 120 isconfigured to support the handle 58 and includes a first end 122, anopposing second end 124 and an extension member 128. The support axle120 has a longitudinal axis C-C. The opposing ends 122, 124 of thesupport axle 120 are supported by the housing 60 in a manner such as tofacilitate rotation of the support axle 120 about the longitudinal axisC-C.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-7 , the extension member 128 extends from thesupport axle 120 in a generally perpendicular direction to the supportaxle 120 and has a length that extends through an arcuate slot 129 inthe housing 60. The extension member 128 includes a shoulder 130. In aninstalled arrangement, the shoulder 130 is positioned within the housing60 and configured to seat against a portion of the housing 60 definingthe arcuate slot 129. In operation, the shoulder 130 and the portion ofthe housing 60 defining the arcuate slot 129 combine to providestructural support to the handle 58.

Referring again to FIGS. 5-7 , a distal end 132 of the extension member128 includes a threaded portion. The threaded portion of the distal end132 is configured to engage a corresponding threaded portion 133 of thehandle 58. As the threaded portion 133 of the handle 58 engages thedistal end 132 of the extension member 128, the handle 58 moves in anaxial direction toward the housing 60 as schematically depicted bydirection arrow Dl. Rotation of the handle 58 continues until an annularprojection 134 from the handle 58 engages a recessed portion 136 of thehousing 60. As will be described in more detail below, the handle 58 isconfigured to engage a strong, structural connection with the housing 60and is further configured to releasable from the connection with thehousing 60 in order to rotate the handle 58 for other desired handle 58locations.

Referring now to FIGS. 8-14 , operation of the cleaning system 40 willnow be described. Referring first to FIG. 8 in an initial step, aportion of the handle 22 of the paint brush 10 is positioned within thecavity 78 formed by the combination of the base section 70, theplurality of riser elements 72 a, 72 b and the top element 74. In a nextstep, the first end 83 of the translation screw 82 is urged against thehandle 22 of the paint brush 10 by rotation of the knob 86. In a nextstep, rotation of the knob 86 continues until the translation screw 82firmly secures the handle 22 against the flat inner surface 76 of thebase section 70.

Referring again to FIG. 8 in a next step, the handle 58 of the cleaningsystem 40 is positioned in a desirable location and the handle 58 istightened against the housing 60 as described above. Next, a motiveforce (not shown for purposes of clarity) is engaged with the secondshaft 50 extending from the housing 60.

Referring now to FIG. 9 , the arm 42, guide element 44 and the cam 46are shown in a first orientation (the remaining components of thecleaning system 40 are not shown for purposes of clarity). In the firstorientation, the aperture 96 at the second end 64 of the arm 42 isengaged with the pin 98 extending from the outboard surface 100 of thecam 46. Further to the first orientation, the paint brush 10 is seatedagainst the flat inner surface 76 of the base section 70 and thebristles 12 of the paint brush extend from the cleaning system 40 in adirection toward a vessel 140. The vessel 140 includes a cleaning medium142. In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning medium 142 is water,configured to clean water-based paint. However, in other embodiments,the cleaning medium 142 can be other fluids, including the non-limitingexample of mineral spirits, configured to clean oil-based paints. Whilethe embodiment shown in FIG. 9 illustrates the bristles 12 as beingoutside of the cleaning medium 142, in other embodiments, the firstorientation can be accomplished with the bristles 12 as sitting withinthe cleaning medium 142.

Referring again to the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 , the cleaning medium142 is described above as water. It should be apparent that an advantageof the cleaning system 40 is that the cleaning medium can have anysource, whether the source is flowing water from a hose or river or froma static body, such as the non-limiting examples of a lake or pond. Thatis, in the event the cleaning medium is water, the water can be sourcedfrom any desirable source, whether the source is a static body of wateror a flowing source of water, such as for example from a faucet or hose.Accordingly, the cleaning system 40 can be implemented and used at anysite, whether or not a source of flowing mater is available.

Referring again to the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 , it should beapparent that another advantage of the cleaning system 40 is that thecleaning medium can be reused for multiple cleanings prior to beingrefreshed with new cleaning medium.

As discussed above, the cleaning system 40 is configured to impartmotion to a paint brush 10 needing cleaning in a manner such as to cleanthe paint brush 10. The imparted motion includes a reciprocatingvertical element simultaneous with a reciprocating side-to-side element,thereby resulting in a continuous elliptical or orbital motion.Referring now to FIG. 14 , an elliptical orbit is illustrated generallyat 150. The elliptical orbit 150 is generally representative of themotion imparted on the paint brush 10 by the cleaning system 40.Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 14 , the first orientation of the arm 42,guide element 44, cam 46 and paint brush 10 is represented by point P1on the elliptical orbit 150 shown in FIG. 14 .

Referring now to FIG. 10 in a next step, the motive force (not shown)has forced further rotation of the second shaft 50. Rotation of thesecond shaft 50 results in rotation of the second right angle gear 54,which in turn results in rotation of the first right angle gear 52 androtation of the first shaft 48. Rotation of the first shaft 48 resultsin rotation of the cam 46 and rotation of the pin 98 extending from thecam 46. Rotation of the pin 98 results in imparted motion to the arm 42.The imparted motion to the arm includes a vertical element, representedby direction arrow M1, simultaneous with a side-to-side or horizontalelement, represented by direction arrow M2. The imparted vertical motionM1 of the arm 42 results in the bristles 12 either penetrating thecleaning solution or moving further into the cleaning solution 142. Theimparted horizontal motion of the arm 42 results in the bristles 12moving in a lateral direction near or within the cleaning solution 142.As the arm 42 moves in the imparted vertical element, the guide element44 is configured to steer the arm 42 in the intended vertical direction.

Referring again to FIGS. 10 and 14 , as the cam 46 forces rotation R1 ofthe pin 98, the pin 98 forces the arm 42 to pivot within the rotatableguide element 44, as schematically depicted by direction arrow R2.Rotation of the guide element 44 and subsequent pivoting of the arm 42imparts the horizontal movement of the arm 42 and the paint brush 10.The rotation of the arm 42, guide element 44, cam 46 and paint brush 10is represented by point P2 on the elliptical orbit 150 shown in FIG. 14.

Referring again to FIGS. 10 and 14 , the vertical element of theimparted motion forms distance VD1. The distance VD1 represents one-halfof the minor axis 152 of the elliptical orbit 150. Similarly, thehorizontal element of the imparted motion forms distance HD1. Thedistance HD1 represents one-half of the major axis 154 of the ellipticalorbit 150.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 14 in a next step, the motive force (notshown) has forced further rotation of the second shaft 50, resulting inrotation of the cam 46 and the pin 98, as schematically represented bydirection arrow R3. Rotation of the pin 98 continues to impart motion tothe arm 42. The imparted motion to the arm includes a vertical element,represented by direction arrow M3, simultaneous with a side-to-side orhorizontal element, represented by direction arrow M4. The impartedvertical motion M3 of the arm 42 results in the bristles 12 eitherpenetrating the cleaning solution or moving further into the cleaningsolution 142. The imparted horizontal motion of the arm 42 results inthe bristles 12 moving in a lateral direction within the cleaningsolution 142. As the arm 42 moves in the imparted vertical element, theguide element 44 is configured to steer the arm 42 in the intendedvertical direction.

Referring again to FIGS. 11 and 14 , as the cam 46 forces rotation R3 ofthe pin 98, the pin 98 forces the arm 42 to pivot within the rotatableguide element 44, as schematically depicted by direction arrow R4.Rotation of the guide element 44 and subsequent pivoting of the arm 42imparts the horizontal movement of the arm 42 and the paint brush 10.The rotation of the arm 42, guide element 44, cam 46 and paint brush 10is represented by point P3 on the orbital motion 150 shown in FIG. 14 .

Referring again to FIGS. 11 and 14 , the vertical element of theimparted motion forms distance VD2. The distance VD2 represents one-halfof the minor axis 152 of the elliptical orbit 150. Similarly, thehorizontal element of the imparted motion forms distance HD2. Thedistance HD2 represents one-half of the major axis 154 of the ellipticalorbit 150.

Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 14 in a next step, the motive force (notshown) has forced further rotation of the second shaft 50, resulting inrotation of the cam 46 and the pin 98, as schematically represented bydirection arrow R5. Rotation of the pin 98 continues to impart motion tothe arm 42. The imparted motion to the arm includes a vertical element,represented by direction arrow M5, simultaneous with a side-to-side orhorizontal element, represented by direction arrow M6. The impartedvertical motion M5 of the arm 42 results in the bristles 12 eitherdeparting the cleaning solution 142 or moving further out of thecleaning solution 142. The imparted horizontal motion of the arm 42results in the bristles 12 moving in a lateral direction within thecleaning solution 142. As the arm 42 moves in the imparted verticalelement, the guide element 44 is configured to steer the arm 42 in theintended vertical direction.

Referring again to FIGS. 12 and 14 , as the cam 46 forces rotation R5 ofthe pin 98, the pin 98 forces the arm 42 to pivot within the rotatableguide element 44, as schematically depicted by direction arrow R6.Rotation of the guide element 44 and subsequent pivoting of the arm 42imparts the horizontal movement of the arm 42 and the paint brush 10.The rotation of the arm 42, guide element 44, cam 46 and paint brush 10is represented by point P4 on the elliptical orbit 150 shown in FIG. 14.

Referring again to FIGS. 12 and 14 , the vertical element of theimparted motion forms distance VD3. The distance VD3 represents one-halfof the minor axis 152 of the elliptical orbit 150. Similarly, thehorizontal element of the imparted motion forms distance HD3. Thedistance HD3 represents one-half of the major axis 154 of the ellipticalorbit 150.

Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14 in a final step, the motive force (notshown) has forced further rotation of the second shaft 50, resulting inrotation of the cam 46 and the pin 98, as schematically represented bydirection arrow R7. Rotation of the pin 98 continues to impart motion tothe arm 42. The imparted motion to the arm includes a vertical element,represented by direction arrow M7, simultaneous with a side-to-side orhorizontal element, represented by direction arrow M8. The impartedvertical motion M7 of the arm 42 results in the bristles 12 eitherdeparting the cleaning solution 142 or moving further out of thecleaning solution 142. The imparted horizontal motion of the arm 42results in the bristles 12 moving in a lateral direction. As the arm 42moves in the imparted vertical element, the guide element 44 isconfigured to steer the arm 42 in the intended vertical direction.

Referring again to FIGS. 13 and 14 , as the cam 46 forces rotation R7 ofthe pin 98, the pin 98 forces the arm 42 to pivot within the rotatableguide element 44, as schematically depicted by direction arrow R8.Rotation of the guide element 44 and subsequent pivoting of the arm 42imparts the horizontal movement of the arm 42 and the paint brush 10.The rotation of the arm 42, guide element 44, cam 46 and paint brush 10returns the cleaning system to point P1 on the elliptical orbit 150shown in FIG. 14 .

Referring again to FIGS. 13 and 14 , the vertical element of theimparted motion forms distance VD4. The distance VD4 represents one-halfof the minor axis 152 of the elliptical orbit 150. Similarly, thehorizontal element of the imparted motion forms distance HD4. Thedistance HD4 represents one-half of the major axis 154 of the ellipticalorbit 150.

Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 14 , after completing the full ellipticalorbit 150, the cleaning system 40 has returned to the origination pointP1 and is ready to complete subsequent elliptical orbits. As describedabove, the elliptical orbits are configured to impart motion to a brushneeding cleaning in a manner such as to clean the brush. The impartedmotion includes a reciprocating vertical element simultaneous with areciprocating side-to-side element. Without being held to the theory, itis believed the imparted elliptical cleaning motion is highly effectivein cleaning the plurality of bristles in the brush as well as cleaningthe plurality of reservoirs formed between the bristles.

Referring again to FIG. 14 , the elliptical orbit 150 is described aboveas having a minor axis 152 and a major axis 154. It should beappreciated that the minor and major axis 152, 154 can have any desireddimensions, thereby resulting in elliptical orbits having a differentappearance than that shown in FIG. 14 . It should also be appreciatedthat in other embodiments, the minor and major axis 152, 154 can haveany desired relative dimensions, including the non-limiting example ofequal dimensions, thereby resulting in a circular motion.

While the embodiment of the cleaning system 40 shown in FIGS. 3-13 havebeen described above in the context of cleaning the bristles of a paintbrush, it should be clear that in other embodiments, the cleaning systemcan be configured to clean the bristles of other types of brushes,including the non-limiting examples of parts cleaning brushes, make-upbrushes and the like. It should also be considered that the cleaningsystem can be configured to clean any objects that may benefit from animparted elliptical cleaning motion, such as the non-limiting examplesof automotive parts, firearm parts, machinery parts and the like.

While the embodiment of the cleaning system 40 shown in FIGS. 3-13includes shafts 48, 50 and gears 52, 54 configured to impart theelliptical cleaning motion 150, it is contemplated that in otherembodiments, other structures, mechanisms and devices can be configuredto impart the elliptical cleaning motion 150. Non-limiting examples ofother structures, mechanisms and devices can include servo motors,linear motors, springs, clamps and the like.

While the embodiment of the cleaning system 40 shown in FIGS. 3-13includes shafts 48, 50 and gears 52, 54 configured to impart the orbitalmotion 150, it is contemplated that in other embodiments, the cleaningsystem 40 can be configured to impart other movements, such as thenon-limiting examples of simultaneous rotational movement to the brushin addition to the orbital motion 150 or reciprocating axial movements.

The principle and mode of operation of the brush cleaning system hasbeen described in certain embodiments. However, it should be noted thatthe brush cleaning system may be practiced otherwise than asspecifically illustrated and described without departing from its scope.

What is claimed is:
 1. A brush cleaning system, comprising: a motiveforce; a cam configured for rotation as urged by the motive force; anarm having a first end engaged with the cam and an opposing second end,the opposing second end configured for vertical and horizontal movementas initiated by rotation of the cam; a clamping structure connected tothe second end of the arm and configured to secure a brush, the brushhaving a plurality of bristles and a plurality of reservoirs formedbetween the plurality of bristles; wherein rotation of the cam resultsin the plurality of bristles and the plurality of reservoirs of thebrush moving in an orbital motion.
 2. The brush cleaning system of claim1, wherein the brush is a paint brush.
 3. The brush cleaning system ofclaim 1, wherein the motive force is an electric drill.
 4. The brushcleaning system of claim 1, wherein a pin extends from the cam andengages the first end of the arm.
 5. The brush cleaning system of claim1, wherein an intermediate section of the arm is guided by a guideelement.
 6. The brush cleaning system of claim 5, wherein theintermediate section is seated in a slot positioned in the guideelement.
 7. The brush cleaning system of claim 5, wherein the guideelement is configured to pivot as the cam is rotated.
 8. The brushcleaning system of claim 1, wherein the cam is connected to a firstshaft and the motive force is connected to a second shaft.
 9. The brushcleaning system of claim 8, wherein the first shaft has a perpendicularorientation to the second shaft.
 10. The brush cleaning system of claim1, wherein the brush is secured within the clamping structure with atranslation screw.
 11. A method of using a brush cleaning system,comprising the steps of: rotating a cam with a motive force; engaging afirst end of an arm with the cam in a manner such that the first end ofthe arm rotates as the cam rotates and a second end of the arm moves ina vertical direction and a horizontal direction as the cam rotates, thesecond end of the arm including a clamping structure; securing a brushto the clamping structure, the brush having a plurality of bristles anda plurality of paint reservoirs between the plurality of bristles;moving the plurality of bristles and the plurality of paint reservoirsin an orbital motion.
 12. The method of using the brush cleaning systemof claim 11, including the step of cleaning a paint brush in a cleaningmedium sourced from a body of water.
 13. The method of using the brushcleaning system of claim 11, including the step of using an electricdrill as the motive force.
 14. The method of using the brush cleaningsystem of claim 11, including the step of guiding an intermediatesection of the arm with a guide element.
 15. The method of using thebrush cleaning system of claim 14, including the step of pivoting theguide element as the cam rotates.
 16. The method of using the brushcleaning system of claim 11, including the step of securing the brushwithin the clamping structure with a translation screw.
 17. A brushcleaning system, comprising: a motive force; an arm connected to themotive force and configured for vertical and horizontal movement asinitiated by a device connected to the motive force; a clampingstructure connected to the arm and configured to secure a brush, thebrush having a plurality of bristles; wherein vertical and horizontalmovement of the arm results in the plurality of bristles of the brushmoving in an orbital motion.
 18. The brush cleaning system of claim 17,wherein the device includes one or more servo motors.
 19. The brushcleaning system of claim 17, wherein the motive force is an electricdrill.
 20. The brush cleaning system of claim 17, wherein the arm isconfigured to pivot during the vertical and horizontal movement.